COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed center Brandon Dubinsky to a six-year contract extension worth a reported $35.1 million through the 2020-21 season.

The 28-year-old Dubinsky, acquired two years ago in the blockbuster deal with the New York Rangers for Rick Nash, has scored 18 goals with 52 assists with a plus-7 plus/minus rating in 105 games the past two seasons. He was at his best in last season’s six-game playoff series with Pittsburgh, scoring a goal with five assists while frequently matched up against Penguins superstar Sidney Crosby.

General manager Jarmo Kekalainen said Dubinsky was the key to the team’s tenacity and determination.

The Columbus Dispatch reported details of the contract, worth $5.85 million per season.